Specially designed heritage frame blends Buddhist art, Himachali cultural identity and traditional brass craftsmanship
Munish Sood
Mandi
A specially crafted heritage frame presented during the President’s visit to Lahaul has brought attention to the artistic capabilities of Himachal Pradesh’s local creative enterprises. Designed and produced by Proframes, based in Bhuntar in Kullu district, the distinctive piece brings together Buddhist artistic traditions, Himachali cultural elements and traditional brass craftsmanship in an elegant presentation.
Prepared for a significant official occasion by the Lahaul administration, the frame features a rich maroon-and-gold colour palette, intricate decorative detailing, floral motifs and traditional auspicious symbols. Its design reflects an effort to present the region’s cultural heritage through a combination of traditional artistry and contemporary craftsmanship.
Specially designed Buddhist border lends a distinctive identity
One of the most notable features of the heritage frame is its specially developed border inspired by Buddhist art. Proframes undertook the design and development of the border, carefully coordinating its patterns, proportions, colours and decorative elements with the overall structure of the frame.
The design aimed to preserve the dignity and visual character of Buddhist art while incorporating elements that reflect Himachal Pradesh’s cultural traditions. The result is a presentation piece that combines artistic detailing with a distinctive regional identity.
Handcrafted brass Buddha artwork adds to its appeal
At the centre of the frame is a handcrafted brass Buddha artwork created by traditional artisan Reet Ram Bajoura. The artwork was developed specifically for the project in coordination with Proframes, bringing traditional brass craftsmanship into a contemporary heritage presentation.
Proframes was responsible for the overall concept, design development, creation of the bespoke Buddhist border, frame construction, coordination of craftsmanship and final finishing. The collaboration highlights how the skills of traditional artisans can be integrated with specialised design and premium framing to create a distinctive cultural artefact.
‘More than a frame, it was an opportunity to present Himachal’s heritage’
Gitesh Gupta, owner of Proframes, said the assignment was more than a conventional framing project, offering an opportunity to represent Himachal Pradesh’s cultural identity and the dignity of Buddhist art on an important official occasion.
He said the Buddhist-inspired border was specially designed for the piece, while the central brass Buddha artwork was crafted by Reet Ram Bajoura in collaboration with Proframes.
Gupta described the presentation during the President’s Lahaul visit as a matter of pride for the enterprise and for Bhuntar, Kullu, where the work was developed and produced.
He added that Proframes aims to bring together Himachal’s traditional art forms, the skills of local artisans and modern design techniques to create distinctive works capable of gaining recognition beyond the state.
Taking local craftsmanship beyond regional markets
Gupta emphasised that Himachal Pradesh’s artistic traditions and craftsmanship should not remain confined to local markets. By combining traditional skills with contemporary design and high-quality presentation, local enterprises can develop products that communicate the state’s cultural richness to audiences across India and abroad.
Proframes works in custom framing, heritage frames, Buddhist art-inspired frames, handcrafted brass artwork, deep framing, archival and fine-art printing, as well as premium presentation pieces for institutions and special occasions.
The project illustrates the potential of collaboration between creative enterprises and traditional artisans, particularly in a state where cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship remain important parts of its identity.
For Bhuntar and the wider Kullu region, the work represents an example of local creative talent contributing to a high-profile official occasion. It also underlines the potential of Himachal’s artisans and design-led businesses to reach wider platforms by combining indigenous craftsmanship with thoughtful design and professional execution.
